2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2003 Proton 400
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Proton 400 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2003 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 773 kg more than 2003 Proton 400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 2003 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Ford | Proton |
| Model | S-Max | 400 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
